Rabat – The World Bank recently committed $350 million to finance a major overhaul of Greater Casablanca’s transport and logistics system.
This financing aims to enhance commuter rail operations and strengthen Morocco’s national railway company, the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF). The goal? To prepare the company for long-term expansion to meet the burgeoning demands of a growing urban population.
Currently, Morocco’s urban population stands at an impressive 60%, with projections indicating it could rise to 70% by 2050. At the heart of this urban transformation is Casablanca-Settat, the country’s economic powerhouse, which is driving much of the demographic shift.
Cities in Morocco are already pivotal in driving economic growth and job creation. However, residents are grappling with serious transportation challenges. Limited options in suburban neighborhoods, escalating traffic congestion, and worsening air quality are just a few issues that need urgent attention. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the future livability and economic potential of these cities.
In response to these pressing issues, the Moroccan government has made significant investments in rail and public transit systems. This commitment reflects a strategic decision to prioritize sustainable urban transport solutions.
The newly launched program, named Service Intra-métropolitain Rapproché (SIR), seeks to enhance train station facilities and increase the frequency of passenger trains. The objective is to reduce travel times between key urban points to 45 minutes or less, thus facilitating greater access to jobs and essential services for residents.
The $350 million investment will focus on extending an electrified commuter rail network that connects central Casablanca with rapidly growing suburbs like Zenata, Mohammedia, Nouaceur, and Bouskoura. This extension is expected to play a vital role in creating more efficient commuting options for residents in these areas.
As part of the project, 73 kilometers of existing railway lines will be renovated, along with electric infrastructure and signaling systems designed to be resilient against climate impacts. By alleviating congestion on existing routes and boosting freight transportation capacity to Casablanca’s port, the project can significantly enhance the functionality of this important commercial hub.
The initiative also plans to develop or upgrade 15 multimodal rail stations with a focus on accessibility and convenience. Enhanced design practices aim to encourage greater use of public transit, thereby promoting environmentally friendly commuting options. Additionally, logistics activities, particularly in the Ain Sebaa industrial district, are expected to flourish due to improved infrastructure.
Ahmadou Moustapha Ndiaye, the World Bank’s Maghreb and Malta Division Director, emphasized that this financing would significantly enhance ONCF’s management capabilities and operational effectiveness. This transformation is designed to help ONCF evolve into a publicly listed company that prioritizes customer service, ultimately making daily commuting a more pleasant experience for Casablanca residents.
By mid-2031, the program is anticipated to improve transport access for over half a million people. It aims to increase the number of jobs reachable by rail within 45 minutes by an impressive seven percent while simultaneously enhancing access to essential services by a similar margin. These improvements promise to create a more interconnected urban environment.
This significant investment marks a transformational turning point in Casablanca’s transport ecosystem. By effectively connecting expanding suburbs while minimizing environmental impacts, the initiative supports ongoing economic growth across the region. It showcases a commitment to thoughtful urban planning and sustainable practices, paving the way for a brighter future for Moroccan cities.
